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66 He conquered his surprise, and the wounded pride in her eyes and voice roused him. To him she was more than aught else in the world, and instantly he took the resolve to sweep away the misunderstanding by explaining all—his purpose in Morvaix, and that he was not the man she believed. He could not let her go in anger, let the cost be what it would.

"One moment. As I live, there is no obstacle on my side to—to our marriage. That I swear. But I will explain all."

She paused and turned, her foot already on the steps to leave him; and his heart leapt to see the light that his words brought back to her eyes.

"You have tried me sorely, cousin. I" she faltered and smiled and then leant for support against the balustrade.

"God knows I would not cause you even a moment's uneasy thought," he said earnestly. "I have done wrong, I know, but the temptation was a sweet one. I had no thought to deceive you when I came"

He got no farther, for at that moment de Proballe stepped from the house and crossed the terrace to them, saying cheerily as he approached—

"Well, are you getting to know one another, eh?"

"What I have to say is for your ears alone. I pray your patience and will give you ample reasons," said Gerard in a quick undertone; adding aloud: "Yes, monsieur, we are close to a complete understanding. Is it not so, cousin?"

"I hope so," she answered, mystified still, but smiling.

"Poor Denys is better, but very weak, and is asking for you."

"With your leave I will go to him," she said to Gerard.

"I sent her off that we may have a talk and an understanding, too," said de Proballe, when Gabrielle had gone